National Film Awards 2025: Mohanlal Honored with Dadasaheb Phalke, Shah Rukh Khan Shares Best Actor

Sep, 24 2025

The buzz around the 71st National Film Awards 2025 was impossible to miss. Held at the stately Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, the event gathered Bollywood’s glitterati, regional stalwarts, and a few nervous first‑timers all under one roof. President Droupadi Murmu took the stage, her presence underscoring the ceremony’s gravitas, and set the tone for a night that celebrated not just box‑office hits but storytelling that mattered.

The big winners and why they matter

When the list of honorees was finally revealed on August 1, at a press conference in the National Media Centre, social media erupted. The headline‑grabber was, of course, Malayalam legend Mohanlal bagging the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. For a career that spans over four decades, more than 350 films, and a slew of national and international accolades, this lifetime‑achievement award felt like a fitting tribute. Fans posted clips of his most iconic roles, from "Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar" to "Kireedam," celebrating a legacy that has shaped Indian cinema’s identity.

In a rare dual win, Shah Rukh Khan and Vikrant Massey shared the Best Actor trophy. Khan’s intense performance in “Jawan,” where he oscillated between a charismatic lead and a tormented soul, reminded audiences why he’s still the ‘King of Bollywood.’ Meanwhile, Massey’s raw, understated portrayal in “12th Fail” earned him critical acclaim for depicting the heartbreaking journey of a student battling systemic pressure. The decision sparked lively debates on forums, with many applauding the jury’s recognition of both mass appeal and nuanced storytelling.

Rani Mukerji’s win for Best Actress, thanks to her powerhouse turn in “Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway,” added another layer of depth to the night. The film, based on a real‑life legal battle, saw Mukerji navigate a mother’s fight against a foreign government – a role many said required both emotional stamina and subtlety. Her acceptance speech, peppered with gratitude towards her co‑stars and director, was a heartfelt reminder of cinema’s power to spotlight social issues.

Highlights beyond the headline awards

While the top acting categories stole most of the limelight, several other winners deserve a mention. Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s “12th Fail” clinched Best Feature Film, a nod to its compelling narrative and strong ensemble cast, including Anant Joshi and Priyanshu Chatterjee. The film’s screenplay, co‑written by Chopra and Jaskunwar Kohli, was praised for its realistic dialogue and tight pacing.

In the language‑specific segment, “Kathal – A Jackfruit Mystery” took home Best Hindi Film, delighting audiences with its quirky blend of mystery and folklore. Sudipto Sen’s directorial triumph, “The Kerala Story,” earned him the Best Director award, a win that highlighted the growing importance of regional cinema on the national stage.

The Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment went to Karan Johar’s “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.” The film’s colorful visuals, seamless choreography by Vaibhavi Merchant, and feel‑good soundtrack resonated with families across the country, confirming Johar’s knack for mass‑appeal storytelling.

Music lovers cheered as P V N S Rohit snagged Best Male Playback Singer for the Telugu hit “Baby,” while Shilpa Rao’s soulful rendition in “Jawan” secured the Best Female Playback Singer award. Their victories underscore the continued cross‑regional collaboration that fuels India’s vibrant music scene.

Technical brilliance shone through in categories like Best Feature Film Promoting National, Social and Environmental Values, which was awarded to “Sam Bahadur,” a biopic that highlighted the Indian army’s resilience. Jetty Venkat Kumar’s visual effects work in “Hanu‑Man” earned the Best Film in AVGC award, showcasing how Indian VFX studios are closing the gap with Hollywood standards.

Regional cinema also got its moment. “Rimdogittanga,” a Garo language film directed by Dominic Sangma, won Best Garo Feature Film, while “Pai Tang,” in Tai Phake, were recognized for preserving linguistic diversity. Special mention went to sound designer M. R. Rajakrishnan for “Animal,” whose atmospheric audio design elevated the film’s horror elements.The ceremony wrapped up with a vibrant performance by a troupe of classical dancers, symbolizing the blend of tradition and modernity that defines Indian cinema today. As the lights dimmed, the consensus was clear: 2023 delivered a cinematic feast that spanned genres, languages, and platforms, and the 71st National Film Awards mirrored that richness in every category honoured.